simpleFLOORS Unwrapped

Seattle simpleFLOORS recycling pallets

2011-12-12T13:10:00.000-08:00

Problem
We at Seattle simpleFLOORS had accumulated a few hundred extra wooden pallets in our warehouse and were wondering what to do with them.

Solution
We donated all of the pallets to a homeless camp in Seattle called "Nickelsville". They will be used for firewood, making walkways, and as tent support to keep tents off the ground. Our friends at Pozzi Brothers Transportation were kind enough to deliver the pallets for us. They do all of our local deliveries and are a great company that we appreciate partnering with.

We are proud to help our local community in this creative manner!

Seattle simpleFLOORS Anniversary

2011-11-05T11:13:00.000-07:00

This month is the 4th anniversary for Seattle simpleFLOORS!

Dave and Charlie have been with simpleFLOORS since the beginning and were integral in helping create the company we are today. Tammi worked with both of them previously and was happy to join the team about 3 years ago.

In spite of the current economic situation we are thriving, in part because our business model has not had to change. We have always believed in offering exciting flooring options for real people and businesses.... at a price they can afford. Luckily we have team members with an exceptional eye for color, style, and longevity to keep our offerings fresh and happy customers to keep the referrals coming.

Here is to another 4 years of helping the Seattle area maintain and increase the beauty of their homes!

Olio!: "Why is there a CORK on his fork?"

2011-10-10T15:39:00.000-07:00

Olio!: "Why is there a CORK on his fork?": Please tell me you get this movie reference. Remember Dirty Rotten Scoundrels? Well, the mention of "cork" always reminds me of that HILARI...

Friends & Family Discounts

2011-08-01T17:21:00.000-07:00

How many times have you had this happen?

Shoppers call or come in to the store and say, “Hey I had a friend buy from here. They just installed it last weekend; it looks great!” And right away half your job is done for you. You’re authenticated, set up in their mind as a reliable, solid business that won’t let them down. But you don’t have to wait for this target group to come into the store. Go out and find them!

Every satisfied customer is an advertisement immeasurably more effective then your best Day-Glo orange banner. Their friends and relatives are your new potential customers. You’d be crazy not to build on that foundation. For example, simpleFLOORS Seattle recently sent out thank-you notes to some chosen customers, enclosing discount cards to be handed out when their new floors inspired compliments.

In today’s market, everyone’s a little proud of their coupon-clipping skills. Give your customer a little more push to brag about theirs; reach out to them with a reminder of just how successful their flooring purchase was. simpleFLOORS Bay Area emails previous customers noting several websites where store reviews are welcomed, so that others can benefit from their positive experience. This builds an online supply of personal recommendations, and also helps customers refine in their own mind what makes simpleFLOORS such a great company to work with.

simpleFLOORS Georgia suggested thanking the referring customer with a small gift card, and the referred with a 10% off (or similar) discount – which then encourages the new customer to spread the word likewise. Reach out to your existing customers and you’ll be an active participant in design conversations all over town!

Click Together vs Tongue and Groove Flooring

2011-03-19T12:35:00.000-07:00

Many customers come in the store asking about click together hardwood and bamboo flooring. Dave put together a simple explanation for them to help understand the differences.

Click Together vs Tongue and Groove Flooring

Click together flooring is becoming more prevalent recently in the flooring industry. However do not let the marketing gimmicks that a lot of manufacturers have been dishing out fool you. The most common theme is that click together floors are much easier for installation. For a professional installer who uses the same lock system frequently, this may make installation 20% quicker. But for the average home owner click together floors typically take as long as or longer than standard tongue and groove. This is because a lot of the time when one is tapping the board into the next board, boards from previous rows comes loose. Ultimately a lot of people end up using blue painters tape just as they would if they were using glue with a tongue and groove system. The biggest fault on click together floors is that they force the installer to do a floating installation only. Certainly some people want to do a nail/staple or glue down applications. The locking systems used in click together floors do not hold as well as glue-together tongue and groove floors either. Thus they are not as “flexible” when in situations where there is a lot of expansion and contraction and will fail much easier. It is also not recommended to sand and refinish click together floors because the belt sanders put a lot of pressure on the lock system. This can loosen the lock system and leave gaps in between boards.

Tongue and groove floors tend to be cheaper as well. Flooring manufacturers typically pay between 8 to 15 cents per linear foot to use one of the two patented lock systems that must be used. This adds up quickly over the course of even a couple rooms. Tongue and groove floors that have been floated will not squeak due to the locking system loosening up. Also, tongue and groove floors that have been floated will provide much better moisture protection from spills and such. The glue acts as a barrier and does not allow the moisture to get under the flooring nearly as easy. When choosing your next flooring, please do not let the marketing gimmicks of some manufacturers sway you on making your correct choice.

In Perspective

2011-03-18T12:17:00.000-07:00

simpleFLOORS has been, from the beginning, a family company.

In the apparent chaos of the world at the moment – the news from Japan, from Libya and Bahrain – it’s timely to remember what’s important in life. To know friends and loved ones are safe and within reach, to have access to food and clean water, to have a home at all – let alone be able to remodel or build one – these are incredible blessings. To live in a country that acknowledges its citizens’ right to select their leaders, is a blessing. To have choices - in food, in news sources, in education, in consumer products, in flooring! – is a blessing. We are reminded of that especially now, when a good portion of the world’s people are without either the resources or the liberty to control their basic surroundings.

As always, we’re grateful for the opportunity to be part of your home. Whether you choose bamboo or Brazilian Cherry, laminate or cork, to do the den or not, we’re happy that you have the chance to improve your home this way. We look forward to assisting you.

And! With all the money you’ll save at simpleFLOORS, http://www.redcross.org/.

Shopping Tips From a Flooring Professional...

2011-01-31T16:21:00.000-08:00

Choosing a new floor is a big decision. Most of us want a floor that suits both our home’s design and our lifestyle, one that complements our house and furniture without making us cringe every time somebody drops a fork or the dog skates in from outside. Add to that the choices in color and grain, handscraping methods, board widths, gloss level, and of course, price, and it’s no wonder some people search for years before fixing on their final choice.

As both a sales rep and a customer, I’ve found that there are two methods of approach when shopping for flooring. You either wander at will and hope to fall in love with something, or do a little research and have a flexible plan. Generally the second approach is less frustrating, time consuming, and expensive. Think about what you want the floor to look like, and also what the floor will have to withstand.

For wearability, some hard and fast truths: A floor that is higher on the Janka scale (1300-3680) will dent less than a floor lower on the scale. Woods with more grain and variation of color will hide wear – dings, dents, scratches – better than a floor that’s more uniform. Medium colors hide dust and scratches much better than dark floors. Handscraping is not just a trend; it’s there to make the inevitable marks you and your family will make over time less noticeable.

For design ideas – well, I used magazines, design books, TV shows, online photos, and of course our very own Flickr page for photos of real-life homes. You don’t have to find the exact color or style that you want, just use these images to find out more about what feels comfortable for you and your household. Do you want a floor that stands out, a centerpiece? Or do you want it to be in the background, a wood that’s pretty but not the focal point? Do you like contrasting colors or do you prefer different shades of the same hue? Should you mix styles, or are you a purist?

When you come into a showroom to look seriously, bring samples of whatever else will be going in the room. Pull out cabinet drawers to bring, get swatches of existing paint color in your house from a home improvement store, grab a couch cushion or your favorite artwork, unscrew the leg from a dining room chair, etc. It’ll be easier to narrow down choices if you have the exact shades & styles you’ve already chosen for your rooms.

A follow-up step is to take samples of your top five choices home, so that you can see the colors in your own lighting. Many showrooms use fluorescent light bulbs, which can bring out the cooler tones in a color, and can dull reds and oranges. You’ll get a better idea of how a wood will look in your house if you place samples in different rooms and peek at them throughout the day, observing how they look in morning light, afternoon light, lamplight, etc. We also encourage our customers to drop everyday items on their take-home samples, to get an accurate idea of how floors wear. Even the hardest woods can be damaged with a sharp point and a lot of force; the question is, do you notice the damage when the sample’s not two inches from your nose?

In the end, you might find two or three ‘right’ choices. If that’s the case, my only advice is:
1. Listen to the house. Sometimes it’s just easier to really SEE one floor in your rooms. My house, built in the 1920s, was easier to picture with the dark brown floor that was my second choice, rather than the light floor that was my first. It’s more dramatic with the high ceilings, tall baseboards, white walls. Ultimately, the house chose the floor for me.
2. Listen to your gut. Is there one that you love-love-love? And if so, are you going to be in the house long enough to appreciate it? There was one floor on my list that I would’ve had a hard time leaving when I sell my house in a couple years. Most home buyers would frown on a seller hastily tearing up floorboards and shoving them in her purse before leaving town.
3. Hold your nose and jump in! After eliminating the definitely-nots, and just-not-for-mes, what’s left will be a lot of beautiful choices.

The Next Cool Thing

2011-01-04T04:56:00.000-08:00

The Next Cool Thing is coming to Atlanta January 14th-16th 2011. Simplefloors is hyped to be a part of this three-day event which showcases members of the creative community such as interior designers, event planners, architects, builders, lighting companies, performers, artisans and craftsmen who will be filling a 90,000 square feet building at 1235 Chattahoochee Avenue in Atlanta. An expected creative element is that the sets/environments are all based on a film or TV theme.

The visual tribute honors the work of Georgia Production Partnership (GPP) and the growing film industry in Georgia. With the help of GPP, Georgia has become one of the top five States in the country for movie and television production.

Georgia Production Partnership from Georgia Production Partnership on Vimeo.

Barbara English of TO THE TRADE ONLY recently said of the event that “We realized the need to bring the creative communities together to introduce them to each other when Craig Miller, of the Georgia Production Partnership (GPP) and I discussed the perception that the state is lacking adequate resources to accommodate new business being generated here from Los Angeles and New York,” Barbara adds, “There is nothing the entertainment industry needs that can’t be found locally.”

The Georgia Production Partnership and TO THE TRADE ONLY partnered to create national awareness of Georgia’s rich, local talent and our mild weather, diverse shooting locations and international airport.

Simplefloors will be installing a variety of our floors in spaces throughout the event. We intend to make good use of the time and shoot our own production of an installation video providing a easy to understand step by step guide of the basic types of flooring installation.

Floor-Live

2010-12-31T04:08:00.000-08:00

You've seen 2010, check out 2011...

2010-12-30T16:00:00.000-08:00

You've seen 2010, check out 2011...

We are always looking for new legitimate ways to contact our customers with information that would be truly helpful. For us that consists of both those who have purchased from us previously, and those who are somewhere in the decision making process.

In Seattle we have saved the emails of most of our previous customers and just sent out the following email that we hope will be valuable to them (either personally or to a friend of theirs).

Our next step will be to revise the email for those potential customers who have not been in the store for awhile.

Hopefully something like this will be useful for you to create your own email - showing off our new flooring products. We are especially thrilled about the Strand and the Acacia products, but of course they are all great! If you would like us to send you the "pretty version" just email or skype one of us at the Seattle store and we will send to you.
Main body of email includes
simpleFLOORS logo

New flooring products at Seattle simpleFLOORS!

We hope you are enjoying the flooring that you purchased from us in the past!

We are excited to have recently brought in some new flooring options and would be honored if you could share them with any friends you know are looking for a new floor in 2011.

New Products
Check out our new flooring options, all additions to current collections. We would be happy to send samples to you - just EMAIL US (link) and let us know which ones you would like.

Strand Bamboo additions - The great strength of Strand (3000 janka) with beautiful hand-scraped character on a 5" x 6' board. The four stains have the latest in design demand, perfect for commercial or residential applications.

Cobra

Viper

Mamba

Python

also full collection links
Photo of each with a link to it was also listed (can send real email to you if you'd like to see it)

Terre Verte additions - Timeless style of smooth finished engineered wood. The new additions are Elm and Acacia with traditional stains.

Canton Elm, Amherst Elm , Bandera Elm, Desoto Elm, African Roma Walnut, Arpeggio, Acacia Walnut, Kazaar, and full collection links
Photo of each with a link to it was also listed (can send real email to you if you'd like to see it)

Old World Chisel additions - Subtle hand-scraped flooring with a satin finish create an elegant addition to any home.

Potomac maple, Richmond Eucalyptus, Natural Maple, Colonial Maple, and full collection links
Photo of each with a link to it was also listed (can send real email to you if you'd like to see it)

Envirocork additions - The "feel better" flooring!

Peniche, Quelez, and full collection links
Photo of each with a link to it was also listed (can send real email to you if you'd like to see it)

Of course we have our previous collections as well - here is a link to our main website to check out all our floors.
ALL our flooring

ODD LOT Specials (we detail listed them)

www.simplefloors.com
Please send me to a friend!

Then on the right side we have 3 featured articles..

Join Our Mailing List
If you know of any contractors or contacts within your company that you feel would benefit from
our newsletter updates and special offers please have them opt-in.

Best of 2010
I would have to say the photo contest was a "best of 2010". Customers got a chance to "show off" their beautiful new homes and also got a chance to win a trip! We received so many responses that were absolutely beautiful... we ended up expanding our contest from one winner to five winners!
CONTEST WINNERS
Check out more real photos from customers

simpleFLOORS Helping the Hungry during the Holidays Featured Article
We are thankful that we work for a company that cares about not only it's employees and
customers... but also the communiıes we live and work in. Our latest promoıon is helping the hungry, and assist our customers in saving money.
Special Discount-
20+ cans of food (or $30 donaıon to Food Lifeline), save 10% off any floor (except clearance items)
Please note that 37% of the people Food Lifeline serves are children, so food geared towards kids is always appreciated!

Want to help? Call us at 206.508.2939 or VISIT Food Lifeline

New flooring products at Sea

Help the Hungry and get Discount Flooring!

2010-11-22T10:33:00.000-08:00

What I am thankful for this week... that we work for a company that cares about not only it's employees and customers... but also the communities we live and work in.

Our latest promotion will help the hungry, and assist our customers in saving money.

Here is the email I will be sending to my potential customers- if you want to do something similar, just check to see which local foodbank you will be supporting.

Email to customers-

Hi!

I am very excited about our new sale/promotion starting this week!

We are going to be supporting Food Lifeline (which is very close to my heart) and offering our customers a great discount by helping us collect food for the hungry in the area.

Discount-
20+ cans of food, save 10% off any floor (except clearance items)

Please note that 37% of the people Food Lifeline serves are children, so food geared towards kids is always appreciated!

If you have any questions or would like to place your order please call or come by.

Sincerely,

Tammi
Seattle simpleFLOORS
206.508.2939
tammi@simplefloors.com

P.S. If you are going to wait to buy your flooring, or have already purchased elsewhere but would still like to help please feel free to drop off your canned food donation or contact Food Lifeline directly at
http://www.foodlifeline.org/help/index.html

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Chris G.

2010-08-30T16:40:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Chris Gendron, Transportation Manager - simpleFLOORS

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, Engineered

Collection- Terre Verte

Wood Species- Tigerwood

Qualities/Specs-
Thickness: 9/16"

Width: 5"

Length: 47 1/2 "
I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors

I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed, or Stapled down

I am: Real Hardwood Engineered
Use: Residential/Commercial
Wood species: Tigerwood

Janka hardness rating: 2160
Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove
Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Wear layer: 2.5mm Real Hardwood
Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide
Gloss level: Satin/Semi Gloss
Construction: 9-Ply Cross Grain Engineered
Countries grown in: Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Guatemala, Mexico

Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes
Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"No matter what you lifestyle is this natural product has a place in your home. The natural color variations and grain patterns are gorgeous! As the floor ages, it is like a fine wine, it only gets better with age. The natural exotic wood enrichens and becomes beautiful with golden hues and a slight red undertone. Not to mention the natural dark stripping that is the best part of the wood and namesake characteristic. On the same token it is not an over bearing or design specific grain pattern and can go with every lifestyle from contemporary to modern. Thumbs up on the Terre Verte Tigerwood."

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Wricky

2010-08-20T16:17:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Wricky Lee · simpleFLOORS Warehouse Operations Manager

Favorite Flooring Product- Laminate, True Timber Aged Hickory

Collection- True Timber

Color/Name- Aged Hickory

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 12mm
Width: 5"
Length: 47 5/8"

I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Floated
I am: Laminate

Use: Residential/Commercial

Strips per board: 1 Strip
Surface Design: High Gloss

Tongue & groove type: Glueless locking 4 sided tongue and groove

Core: HDF - High Density Fiberboard coreMicro-Beveled

Underlayment: Requires underlayment

Edge design: Micro-Beveled
Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss Level: Medium Fine Gloss

Maintenance level: Easy

Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes

Warranty: 30 year wear warranty

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"My favorite is the True Timber - Aged Hickory because I like the dramatic grains of hickory that look like real wood without the high end cost of real wood. It has an attractive pattern with a beautiful gloss shining on top. Being that it is a top of the line laminate floor it has the necessary density to avoid the hollow sound of most laminate flooring at a great price."

Confessions of Cork Fan

2010-08-11T14:19:00.000-07:00

In Sacramento, California - close to UC Davis, a university nationally lauded for its commitment to environmental sustainability - we have a lot of customers committed to purchasing ‘green’ flooring. The products available to these customers are more varied and better constructed than at any time in our consumer history.

At simpleFLOORS, we make it difficult not to be green.

One sustainable choice that we’re questioned about a lot is our Enviro-Cork line. The appeal of cork is its calm, welcoming look and feel. Our choices are natural brown shades, reminiscent of driftwood, that coordinate well with both earth tones and brighter, cooler colors. Use it in rooms where you want a comfortable floor that will mature with your family.

In our Sacramento store, we’re all rabidly against carpet for both health and style reasons. We do have a lot of customers who have a hard time picturing any other type of floor in the bedrooms, mostly because it’s softer and warmer than hardwood. With that basis, I’d especially recommend considering cork floors for bedrooms. Cork is noticeably warmer and gentler on feet and joints than many floors, and also hypoallergenic, antifungal, antistatic, insect-resistant, mold-resistant, fire-resistant, and did I mention environmentally friendly? Because it’s a great insulator, cork flooring can even reduce heating costs in your home! Love it!

Keep in mind that cork choices with natural grains and tones are much better at hiding dust and any wear that does occur. Cork flooring is comparatively easy to repair. Any major damage can typically be filled with a natural-colored putty or just recovered with a polyurethane finish. It also can recover from impact; heavy furniture may leave a mark but once it’s moved, your floor will actually rebound to close to its original condition, typically within 24 hours. And it’s a click-together floor, similar to laminate, so installation is really as simple as possible.

One more thing I’d like to point out is the fact that the Library of Congress, the Mayo Clinic, and the New York City and Boston Public Libraries all have cork floors in busy, open-to-the-public areas, and have for years. Many Frank Lloyd Wright houses, including the iconic Fallingwater, employ cork flooring in a resolution to use sustainable materials evocative of nature. It’s a beautiful, renewable product that’s been time-tested in a variety of settings. Why not your house?

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Christian

2010-07-31T11:35:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Christian Rodriquez · simpleFLOORS NW District Sales Mgr

Favorite Flooring Product- Laminate, Masterpiece Cedar

Collection- Masterpiece

Color/Name- Cedar

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 12mm
Width: 5"
Length: random

I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Floated
I am: Laminate

Use: Residential/Commercial

Strips per board: 1 Strip
Surface Design: Silk

Tongue & groove type: Glueless locking 4 sided tongue and groove

Core: HDF - High Density Fiberboard coreMicro-Beveled

Underlayment: Requires underlayment

Edge design: Micro-Beveled
Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss Level: Swedish Satin-Oil Semi Gloss

Maintenance level: Easy

Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"High Traffic? Have kids? Have Pets? Masterpiece collection is the ideal floor for homes with a busy lifestyle.

It's one strip, beveled edge planks really give it the appearance of an authentic hardwood floor, but also provides piece of mind knowing that at there are less risks with denting, dinging and scratching! Many attractive patterns and color tones, that all look very real once they are down, to me the mellow grain and color tones in the Cedar are aesthetically pleasing that's the main reason its my choice. Take a look there is a color or pattern for every one, even you!"

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Brikena

2010-07-25T10:00:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Brikena Wilson · simpleFLOORS Assistant Controller

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, 3/4" solid

Collection- Reclamation Plank

Wood Species- Oak

Color/Name- Indian Red

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 3/4"
Width: 7.87"
Length: 72"

I go over: Both Concrete or Wooden subfloors
I can be: Floated or Nailed down
I am: Solid Hardwood

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Oak
Janka hardness rating: 1360

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin/Matte

Construction: Hand-rubbed stains and charcoal washed grain
Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: On Grade or Above Grade

Radiant heat: No

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"It is a gorgeous floor! I love its color, its feel... Everything about it says 'pick me'!"

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Larry F.

2010-07-16T14:47:00.001-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Larry Fields · simpleFLOORS San Francisco

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, 3/4" solid

Collection- Passport2

Wood Species- Brazilian Walnut / Ipe

Color/Name- Brazilian Walnut

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 3/4"

Width: 3 3/4"
Length: Random

I go over: Wooden subfloors
I can be: Nailed down
I am: Real Hardwood

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Brazilian Walnut/Ipe
Janka hardness rating: 3680

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Finish: German Treffic brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin/Semi Gloss

Construction: Solid Exotic Hardwood
Countries grown in: Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Venezuela, Guatemala

Installation rating: Moderate

Structural placement: On Grade or Above Grade

Radiant heat: No

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why this flooring is my favorite:
"Very elegant looking, rich yet subtle grain and the natural tonal variations add wonderful character."

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Claude

2010-07-05T09:39:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Claude Moise · simpleFLOORS Regional Sales Manager

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, Engineered

Collection- Old World Chisel

Wood Species- Hickory

Color/Name- Yucatan Hickory

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 9/16"
Width: 4 9/10"
Length: 47 1/2"

I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed or Stapled down
I am: Real Hardwood Engineered

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Hickory
Janka hardness rating: 1820

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Wear layer: 2.5mm Real Hardwood

Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin/Semi Gloss

Construction: 9-Ply Cross Grain Engineered

Countries grown in: North America, Europe, Asia

Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"Old World Chisel Yucatan Hickory is my favorite floor!

The attractive appearance of the Coarse Effect Hand-scraped technique and the natural warmth of the color hues inherent in the Yucatan Hickory make it my favorite floor. This floor can uplift a drab room, compliment furniture, design schemes and add value to any home. The Yucatan Hickory is definitely a choice to be considered for any home owner looking to remodel their home."

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Lyza

2010-06-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Lyza Perez · simpleFLOORS ESales
Favorite Flooring Product- Bamboo, Strand Woven

Collection- Nature Strand Woven

Wood Species- Bamboo

Color/Name- Zebrano Raw

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 1/2"
Width: 3 3/4"
Length: 72"

I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed or Stapled down
I am: Solid Bamboo

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Bamboo
Janka hardness rating: 3000

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin
Kiln dried: Yes

Construction: Solid Bamboo

Countries grown in: China

Installation rating: Moderate

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"The Strand Natural has been my favorite ever since the beginning of working with simpleFLOORS! The color and interesting grain pattern complements my minimalist approach to design. Add its durability and being environmentally-friendly, I found my perfect floor! Love it! "

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Jan

2010-06-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Jan Charles · simpleFLOORS eSales

Favorite Flooring Product- Cork, Cobblestone

Collection- Enviro-Cork

Wood Species- Cork Flooring

Color/Name- Cobblestone

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 3/8"
Width: 11 4/5"
Length: 35 1/2"

I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Floated
I am: Click Lock Cork

Use: Residential/Commercial

Green: Yes
Tongue & groove type: Glueless locking 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Squared

Finish: Poly Urethane

Gloss level: Matte

Construction: Top has high-density 1/8” thick cork surface. Center has high-density fiberboard core made from recycled post-production waste. Bottom has a 2mm layer of high-density cork underlayment.

Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"I am having the Cobblestone Cork installed in my new condo. I love the fact that it is so warm in color tones (and the feet!). Muted tans, soft deep peaches and speckled with browns. Truly a work of art in itself! Decorating possibilities are endless as Cobblestone Cork works whether you live in a contemporary city condo, farm in the country or anywhere in between.

Installation is a breeze as our cork flooring "clicks together" - with the added bonus - the cork pad is attached!"

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Danny

2010-06-06T10:00:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Danny Golden · simpleFLOORS, North Hollywood

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, Engineered

Collection- Chattered Delfino

Wood Species- Maple

Color/Name- Canyon Maple French Dark Edge

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 1/2"
Width: 6"
Length: 48"

I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed or Stapled down
I am: Real Hardwood Engineered

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Maple
Janka hardness rating: 1450

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove
Surface & technique: Hand-scraped, Chisel Impact

Edge design: Micro-beveled

Finish: 8 coats German Teffic Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Swedish Satin-Oil Semi Gloss

Construction: 9-Ply Cross Grain Engineered

Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"I really like the Canyon French w/ darkened edges. I really love the charm and character of it. It reminds me of being in an English castle."

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - John Sanders

2010-05-30T10:17:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- John Sanders - CMO

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, Engineered

Wood Species- Ipe/Brazilian Walnut

Color/Name- Brazilian Walnut (French Bleed)

Specifications

Thickness: 9/16

Width: 5"

Length: 47 1/2"
I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors

I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed or Stapled down

I am: Real Hardwood Engineered
Use: Residential/Commercial
Wood species: Brazilian Walnut/Ipe

Janka hardness rating: 3680
Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove
Edge design: Micro-Beveled
Wear layer: 2.5mm hardwood
Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide
Gloss level: Satin/Semi Gloss
Construction:9-Ply Cross Grain Engineered
Countries grown in: Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Venezuela, Guatemala
Weight: 54.70 lbs.
Sq ft per carton: 26.05/sf
Maintenance level: Easy
Installation rating: Easy
Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade
Radiant heat: Yes
Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is this flooring my favorite?
"I have many favorites but right now I am really impressed with the Brazilian Walnut French Bleed option for its aesthetics. I could not use this solid construction in my own home as I would need a more stable engineered version. I have a concrete floor and the solid would warp. That being said, the species of walnut used has amazing color variation, plank to plank. Part of what separates a wood floor from a plastic laminate is this natural variation in tones and grains. They are rich colors as well, some with Merlot hues, some with Chocolate, some with a Sage tone. When these are randomized throughout the room it is an inspiring view and creates comfort. This is the perfect floor to add the French Bleed (dark edge) element on all four sides.
The dark edging between the strips of wood which individually contain the variety of colors, creates the frame of separation between the planks allowing the colors to visually POP out of the planks."

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Dave West

2010-05-23T10:00:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Dave West · simpleFLOORS Partner, Seattle/Tukwila

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, Engineered

Collection- Vintage Couture

Wood Species- Brazilian Teak/Cumaru

Color/Name- Brazilian Teak

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 1/2"
Width: 6 3/8"
Length: 47 5/8"

I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed or Stapled down
I am: Real Hardwood Engineered

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Brazilian Teak/Cumaru
Janka hardness rating: 3540

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove
Surface & technique: Hand-scraped, Chisel Impact

Edge design: Hand carved micro-bevel

Finish: 8 coats German Teffic Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin/Semi Gloss

Construction: 9-Ply Cross Grain Engineered

Countries grown in: Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Costa Rica

Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"I like the way it works with different furniture styles. The durability is also great, while the subtle distressing lets the natural color variation of the floor stand out. We have a customer who put over 3000sf of this flooring in his high end showroom at the Seattle Design Center and when I went to the Grand Opening gala I saw numerous people pointing at the floor and saying how wonderful it looked."

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Muriel

2010-05-16T10:15:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Muriel Villamor · simpleFLOORS ESales

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, 3/4" solid

Collection- Reclamation Plank

Wood Species- Acacia

Color/Name- Sunrise

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 3/4"
Width: 7.87"
Length: 72"

I go over: Both Concrete or Wooden subfloors
I can be: Floated or Nailed down
I am: Solid Hardwood

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Acacia
Janka hardness rating: 2400

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin/Matte

Construction: Hand-rubbed stains and charcoal washed grain
Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: On Grade or Above Grade

Radiant heat: No

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"Has such warm, inviting tones with an impressive distress and grain pattern. It makes any room glow. Simply stunning!"

Taste. The Newly Renovated Esales department.

2010-05-12T09:52:00.000-07:00

Taste. The Newly Renovated Esales department.

The Floors: Old World Chisel's Banaue
The cubes: Steelcase
The Chairs: Lider by Eames
The lighting: Infused Rice Paper

On the phones, loving the new Diggs and delivering floors nation-wide. Looking good esales!

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Marc

2010-05-09T11:21:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Marc Genova · simpleFLOORS ESales

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, Engineered

Collection- Vintage Couture

Wood Species- Hickory

Color/Name- Natural Hickory

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 1/2"
Width: 6 3/8"
Length: 47 5/8"

I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed or Stapled down
I am: Real Hardwood Engineered

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Hickory
Janka hardness rating: 1820

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Hand carved, Micro-Beveled

Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin/Semi Gloss

Construction: 9-Ply Cross Grain Engineered

Countries grown in: North America, United States

Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"I like the fact that no stains are applied to this floor, revealing natural tones and grain character of the Hickory. It's incredibly durable, perfect for pet owners, a great value and goes with any decor from classic to contemporary."

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Anica

2010-05-02T12:13:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Anica Pernes · simpleFLOORS Alpharetta, GA

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, 3/4" solid

Collection- Reclamation Plank

Wood Species- Acacia

Color/Name- Saratoga

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 3/4"
Width: 7.87"
Length: 72"

I go over: Both Concrete or Wooden subfloors
I can be: Floated or Nailed down
I am: Solid Hardwood

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Acacia
Janka hardness rating: 2400

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin/Matte

Construction: Hand-rubbed stains and charcoal washed grain
Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: On Grade or Above Grade

Radiant heat: No

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"Is there another like our Saratoga? It is....the most beautiful wood I know! A wood that caters to any style and decor; be it a cabin or a multi million dollar home.

The reds...warm browns with honey undertones give it dimension. While the distress shows off the woods true beauty...dark knots wild in their truest form. Each piece

as if hand picked to pull together the most perfect plank. The length and width makes a bold statement to any office space or home..whether on concrete or subfloor.

A rubber cushion reduces creaks and the vibration from foot traffic. A solid wood respected by all species for its Janka.

Is there another like our Saratoga? Mother nature smiles upon you....Simple Floors!!!"

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Rocky

2010-04-25T10:15:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Rocky · simpleFLOORS CTO

Favorite Flooring Product- Cork, Harmony

Collection- Enviro-Cork

Wood Species- Cork Flooring

Color/Name- Harmony

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 3/8"
Width: 11 4/5"
Length: 35 1/2"

I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Floated
I am: Click Lock Cork

Use: Residential/Commercial

Green: Yes
Tongue & groove type: Glueless locking 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Squared

Finish: Poly Urethane

Gloss level: Matte

Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"I consider myself an Environmentalist, and am very conscious of what I put both in my home and in my body. Caring about myself includes having products that showcase my lifestyle. Cork flooring does this because it is a renewable resource, better for your body to stand on, and anti-microbial. My friends say I am 'too hippy-dippy' but when they see the Harmony cork flooring in my house they just think it is straight-out hip!"

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Jessica

2010-04-19T11:58:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Jessica Liu · simpleFLOORS San Jose

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, Engineered

Collection- Vintage Couture

Wood Species- African Walnut

Color/Name- Natural African Walnut

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 1/2"
Width: 6 3/8"
Length: 47 5/8"

I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed or Stapled down
I am: Real Hardwood Engineered

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: African Walnut
Janka hardness rating: 2400

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Hand carved, Micro-Beveled

Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin/Semi Gloss

Construction: 9-Ply Cross Grain Engineered

Countries grown in: Africa Mainland

Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"I have always loved Natural African Walnut ever since I started working for simpleFLOORS. Natural African Walnut has a gorgeous dark vertical wood grains throughout. If you look at it closer, you will see some beautiful pink tone, as well as very light spring orange shade. Armed with a 2400 hardness rating, this floor speaks for its form and function. It will work in a contemporary loft, as well as a transitional interior."

Februarys Winner of the "Win A Hardwood Floor" Contest

2010-04-09T10:52:00.000-07:00

"My wife and I really appreciate the floors you sent us. When we won the contest we expected to received a mid grade floor that would be serviceable but not top notch. What we got, was an absolutely beautiful set of engineered maple flooring that looks fantastic in our home. The floors arrived only two weeks after we were informed that we we were the winners. We installed it a week a later and had no problems at all. The floors layed down perfectly and makes our house look like a brand new.
Thank you Simple Floors!!!!!" - The Horne Family

Thank you Horne family for your kind words and your participation in our free floor giveaway!

Everyone deserves amazing flooring.. its your turn! Pick your favorite at www.simplefloors.com and don't forget to submit your entry for our current flooring giveaway!

The Horne Family selected: Vintage Couture Aiden Maple flooring.

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Anne

2010-04-05T12:50:00.001-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Anne Evans · simpleFLOORS Sacramento, CA

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, 3/4" solid

Collection- Reclamation Plank

Wood Species- Acacia

Color/Name- Prairie

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 3/4"
Width: 7.87"
Length: 72"

I go over: Both Concrete or Wooden subfloors
I can be: Floated or Nailed down
I am: Solid Hardwood

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Acacia
Janka hardness rating: 2400

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin/Matte

Construction: Hand-rubbed stains and charcoal washed grain
Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: On Grade or Above Grade

Radiant heat: No

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"As a designer, I look for a floor with diversity & character, that can fit into many decors. Our Heritage Reclamation Plank Prairie is highly adaptable, from Rustic Cottages to Old World Villas, French Chateaus to mountain cabins and exotic settings. Its statement can say traditional, transitional, or make a contemporary juxtaposition. It has the richest depth of warm neutral colors with a unique character and true vintage artistic design. More importantly, its look can stand up to even the most active lifestyles, and to top it off, it’s green! What else could you want?"

Brown Box'in it = Green ?

2010-03-30T07:42:00.000-07:00

For the simplefloors team, this pallet is a familiar site. For the past 5 years our packaging has been similar to this. They came in multiple colors and although this one is just in black and white, to make these cartons we purchase ink, dye and gloss coating in chemical format. Coating the cardboard with these additional elements (think juice-boxes) uses unnecessary chemicals and the gloss spray outer coating eliminates the ability for recycling in most areas, a double downer.
Simplefloors is not yet "picture perfect green", but in various corners of its operations we are making progress toward this end. Most of these changes are easy to make and cost very little or nothing at all. What is needed is ongoing conscious commitments to protect our environment. We are the first manufacture in our industry to green our packaging. When you provide roughly a million square feet worth of flooring any given month that means little steps have the ability to make a big impact on the environment.

Here are examples of the newly arrived generic brown (yet green) boxes with no coating.

These just arrived to the Suwanee GA, warehouse. Oakland CA and other locations receiving these as well.
The writing the left of the recycle logo reads "This box is brown intentionally. By allowing this box to be its natural color we are reducing the footprint on the environment. Please recycle this when you are done.

In a few months, the majority of the inventory in the warehouses will be sporting their new Green packaging.

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Tammi

2010-03-29T11:05:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Tammi Lynd-Fleming · simpleFLOORS Seattle/Tukwila

Favorite Flooring Product- Bamboo, Strand Woven

Collection- Nature Strand Woven

Wood Species- Bamboo

Color/Name- Zebrano

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 1/2"
Width: 3 3/4"
Length: 72"

I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed or Stapled down
I am: Solid Bamboo

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Bamboo
Janka hardness rating: 3000

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin
Kiln dried: Yes

Construction: Solid Bamboo

Countries grown in: China

Installation rating: Moderate

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"The Strand product is so durable that it works great is multiple applications - real family homes like mine, rentals, kitchens, cabins, etc. The different shades available make it a work for various styles. The Zebrano is my favorite because it is fun! "

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Stephen

2010-03-21T14:35:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Stephen Alexander · simpleFLOORS ESales

Favorite Flooring Product- Laminate, Masterpiece Warm Nutmeg

Collection- Masterpiece

Color/Name- Warm Nutmeg

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 12mm
Width: 5"
Length: random

I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Floated
I am: Laminate

Use: Residential/Commercial

Strips per board: 1 Strip
Surface Design: Silk

Tongue & groove type: Glueless locking 4 sided tongue and groove

Core: HDF - High Density Fiberboard coreMicro-Beveled

Underlayment: Requires underlayment

Edge design: Micro-Beveled
Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss Level: Swedish Satin-Oil Semi Gloss

Maintenance level: Easy

Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty

Why is that flooring my favorite?

"My favorite is the Warm Nutmeg, because I am a frugal man. It looks like wood, yet priced like laminate!"

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Tom

2010-03-14T14:53:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Tom · simpleFLOORS COO

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, 3/4" solid

Collection- Passport2

Wood Species- Acacia

Color/Name- English Saddle

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 3/4"

Width: 4 9/10"
Length: Random

I go over: Wooden subfloors
I can be: Nailed down
I am: Real Hardwood

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Acacia
Janka hardness rating: 2400

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Finish: German Treffic brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin/Semi Gloss

Construction: Solid Exotic Hardwood
Countries grown in: Africa Mainland, Asia

Installation rating: Moderate

Structural placement: On Grade or Above Grade

Radiant heat: No

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
http://www.simplefloors.com/products/Exotic-Flooring/Passport-Collection-2/English-Saddle/flooring726.aspx#room_views

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Lesley

2010-03-07T09:55:00.000-08:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Lesley Rood · simpleFLOORS Sacramento

Favorite Flooring Product- Bamboo, Strand Woven

Collection- Nature Strand Woven

Wood Species- Bamboo

Color/Name- Natural

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 1/2"
Width: 3 3/4"
Length: 72"

I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed or Stapled down
I am: Solid Bamboo

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Bamboo
Janka hardness rating: 3000

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin
Kiln dried: Yes

Construction: Solid Bamboo

Countries grown in: China

Installation rating: Moderate

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?

"I always like my house to feel clean, cool, and crisp, like new sheets. I also like to move my furniture around and change my style frequently, so my flooring has to be pretty adaptable to different colors. For this reason, I like light, natural-colored floors that are neutrals by themselves.

The Strand Woven Natural bamboo is one of our best selling, best loved products in Sacramento. It has the hardness of an exotic floor for the price of a bamboo, and the active grain really helps hide any wear that does happen. The look of this floor appeals to a huge range of people – from eco-hipsters to traditionalists, and very (very!) casual people like my own parents, who are considering it for their basement rec room. It’s such a beautiful, durable floor, I can’t tell you the number of customers who come back to tell me they love it even more than they expected."

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Darin

2010-02-28T10:15:00.000-08:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Darin Howard · simpleFLOORS San Jose

Favorite Flooring Product- Bamboo, Strand Woven

Collection- Nature Strand Woven

Wood Species- Bamboo

Color/Name- Bora

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 1/2"
Width: 3 3/4"
Length: 72"

I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed or Stapled down
I am: Solid Bamboo

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Bamboo
Janka hardness rating: 3000

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin
Kiln dried: Yes

Construction: Solid Bamboo

Countries grown in: China

Installation rating: Moderate

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"The Bora is my favorite flooring because not only is it beautiful but it is durable as well , with a janka rating of 3000 this floor will hold up to normal family and pet traffic. If you take into consideration the hardness with the price that we offer strand woven bamboo is the best value hands down.
Also Trims and moldings are in stock and there is no waiting for them to arrive.
If you have pets or kids Strand Woven Bamboo is the floor for you...!"

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Greg

2010-02-21T10:15:00.000-08:00

Greg's dog likes catching the waves!

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Greg Chiarello · simpleFLOORS eSales

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, Engineered

Collection- Vintage Couture

Wood Species- Brazilian Walnut

Color/Name- Brazilian Walnute/Ipe

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 1/2"
Width: 6 3/8"
Length: 47 5/8"

I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed or Stapled down
I am: Real Hardwood Engineered

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Brazilian Walnut/Ipe
Janka hardness rating: 3680

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Wear layer: 2.5mm Real Hardwood

Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin/Semi Gloss

Construction: 9-Ply Cross Grain Engineered

Countries grown in: Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Venezuela, Guatemala

Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"Customers love this floor. I like variations in grain pattern."

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Holly

2010-02-14T10:15:00.000-08:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Holly Skykes · simpleFLOORS San Francisco

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, Engineered

Collection- Old World Chisel

Wood Species- African Hickory

Color/Name- Natural African Hickory

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 9/16"
Width: 4 9/10"
Length: 47 1/2"

I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed or Stapled down
I am: Real Hardwood Engineered

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: African Hickory
Janka hardness rating: 1820

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Wear layer: 2.5mm Real Hardwood

Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin/Semi Gloss

Construction: 9-Ply Cross Grain Engineered

Countries grown in: South Africa

Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"I love the variation! It is like hiking through an emerging tree line. Strawberry blond, auburn, chocolate and spring grass..."

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Chace V.

2010-02-07T12:29:00.000-08:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Chace · simpleFLOORS Orange, CA

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, 3/4" solid

Collection- Passport2

Wood Species- Acacia

Color/Name- Smoked Almond

Photo of Flooring- "This photo is from one of your customers who smiles every time he looks down at his Smoked Almond!"

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 3/4"

Width: 4 9/10"
Length: Random

I go over: Wooden subfloors
I can be: Nailed down
I am: Real Hardwood

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Acacia
Janka hardness rating: 2160

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Finish: German Treffic brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin/Semi Gloss

Construction: Solid Exotic Hardwood
Countries grown in: Africa Mainland, Asia

Installation rating: Moderate

Structural placement: On Grade or Above Grade

Radiant heat: No

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"I love everything about our Smoked Almond. The solid feel, the exotic grain pattern, the random lengths and overall richness of this floor makes the Smoked Almond my favorite floor of the week."

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Cece

2010-01-31T11:20:00.000-08:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Cece Randolph - Sacramento

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, Engineered

Wood Species- Ipe

Color/Name- Brazilian Walnut/Ipe

Specifications

Thickness: 9/16

Width: 5"

Length: 47 1/2"
I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors

I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed or Stapled down

I am: Real Hardwood Engineered
Use: Residential/Commercial
Wood species: Brazilian Walnut/Ipe

Janka hardness rating: 3680
Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove
Edge design: Micro-Beveled
Wear layer: 2.5mm hardwood
Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide
Gloss level: Satin/Semi Gloss
Construction:9-Ply Cross Grain Engineered
Countries grown in: Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Venezuela, Guatemala
Weight: 54.70 lbs.
Sq ft per carton: 26.05/sf
Maintenance level: Easy
Installation rating: Easy
Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade
Radiant heat: Yes
Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is this flooring my favorite?
Being an artist I look for beauty in the simple things and generally turn to nature for inspiration. With the Brazilian Walnut I am never disappointed. It is simply a masterpiece from nature. I love the color variation that the Brazilian Walnut is known for and the element of surprise that comes along with it. Nature’s perfection in the Brazilian Walnut isn’t just skin deep; it also offers another benefit, one that may surprise you. The true beauty lies with its dense grain structure. The Brazilian Walnut is naturally resistant to fire and has a NFPA Class A Rating and UBC Class 1 Rating (the same as concrete and steel). Not only is its color & sophisticated variation breathtakingly beautiful, its Janka rating goes unmatched at 3680. Brazilian Walnut is strong, tough, resilient and oh so beautiful.

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - John H

2010-01-24T10:30:00.000-08:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- John Housley· simpleFLOORS North Hollywood, CA

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, 3/4" solid

Collection- Reclamation Plank

Wood Species- Acacia

Color/Name- Sable

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 3/4"
Width: 7.87"
Length: 72"

I go over: Both Concrete or Wooden subfloors
I can be: Floated or Nailed down
I am: Solid Hardwood

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Acacia
Janka hardness rating: 2400

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin/Matte

Construction: Hand-rubbed stains and charcoal washed grain
Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: On Grade or Above Grade

Radiant heat: No

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"I love the rich tones and the color variation. This floor is a big hit with our customers, too!"

simpleFLOORS donates to help Haiti

2010-01-21T10:43:00.000-08:00

Message from simpleFLOORS Board of Directors to simpleFLOORS team -

Although we see the reports on television, it is difficult to fully understand the tragedy so many in Haiti are facing. Our thoughts go out to our immediate employees with family members in Haiti. We can only hope that none of us ever have to experience devastation of this magnitude personally.

Simultaneously, It goes without saying that this is a difficult period for many financially. Donations of this sort are a highly personal matter and what may be feasible for some may not be feasible for all with this regard. The board felt it appropriate that Simplefloors donate $2000.00 to the American Red Cross on behalf of the entire team. This humble donation was made possible because of all of your daily efforts.

The latest numbers indicate $221 million dollars have already been raised by efforts from the Red Cross, World Vision, Salvation Army and many more. The majority of which are humble amounts such as this from a great number of concerned people.

Simplefloors Board of Directors

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Jason

2010-01-17T10:09:00.000-08:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Jason Kilmer · simpleFLOORS Sacramento

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, Engineered

Collection- Old World Chisel

Wood Species- Hickory

Color/Name- Machu Picchu

Qualities/Specs-

Thickness: 9/16"
Width: 4 9/10"
Length: 47 1/2"

I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed or Stapled down
I am: Real Hardwood Engineered

Use: Residential/Commercial

Wood species: Hickory
Janka hardness rating: 1820

Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove

Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Wear layer: 2.5mm Real Hardwood

Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide

Gloss level: Satin/Semi Gloss

Construction: 9-Ply Cross Grain Engineered

Countries grown in: Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Costa Rica

Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes

Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"I love the handscraping technique used on this floor - it compliments the natural grain of the Hickory. The color of Machu Picchu is unique as well - it can go with either warm or cool tones and colors. It also feels great underfoot. This floor impressed me so much I put it in my own house!"

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Denise

2010-01-10T11:00:00.000-08:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Denise Byram · simpleFLOORS Conyers, GA

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, 3/4" solid

Collection- Passport2

Wood Species- Tigerwood

Color/Name- Tigerwood Natural

Qualities/Specs-
Thickness: 3/4"

Width: 5"

Length: Random
I go over: Wooden subfloors

I can be: Nailed down

I am: Real Hardwood
Use: Residential/Commercial
Wood species: Tigerwood/Koa

Janka hardness rating: 2160
Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove
Edge design: Micro-Beveled
Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide
Gloss level: Satin/Semi Gloss
Construction: Solid Exotic Hardwood

Countries grown in: Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Guatemala, Mexico
Installation rating: Moderate
Structural placement: On Grade or Above Grade
Radiant heat: No
Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?

"Not only is it absolutely beautiful but is has brawn as well with an exotic look!"

*Note- this was supposed to post on 1/10/10

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Debbie

2010-01-03T10:00:00.000-08:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Debbie from Sacramento simpleFLOORS

Favorite Flooring Product - Hardwood, Engineered

Collection- Old World Chisel

Wood Species- Acacia

Color/Name- Roasted Almond

Specs
Thickness: 1/2"
Width: 4 3/4"
Length: Random
I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors
I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed, or Stapled down
I am: Real Hardwood Engineered
Use: Residential/Commercial
Wood species: Acacia
Janka hardness rating: 2400
Surface design: Hand-scraped
Hand-scraped technique: Chisel Impact
Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove
Edge design: Micro-Beveled
Wear layer: 2.5mm Real Hardwood
Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide
Gloss level: Satin/Semi Gloss
Construction: 9-Ply Cross Grain Engineered
Countries grown in: Australia, Africa, India, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines
Maintenance level: Easy
Installation rating: Easy
Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade
Radiant heat: Yes
Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is this flooring my favorite?
Most of us have a selection of different wood cabinets and wood furniture pieces in our homes, making sure that you have the right wood floor can be tricky. Flooring that encompasses multiple colors and grains can help bring a homes decorating style together. This floor makes decorating around existing home furnishings... simple!

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Dave K

2009-12-27T11:00:00.000-08:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Dave Kaplan, Portland simpleFLOORS

Photo- Attached photo is my grand-daughter Nora, eating cake with the Tigerwood flooring in background

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, Engineered

Collection- Terre Verte

Wood Species- Tigerwood

Qualities/Specs-
Thickness: 9/16"

Width: 5"

Length: 47 1/2 "
I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors

I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed, or Stapled down

I am: Real Hardwood Engineered
Use: Residential/Commercial
Wood species: Tigerwood

Janka hardness rating: 2160
Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove
Edge design: Micro-Beveled

Installation rating: Easy

Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade

Radiant heat: Yes
Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?
"I bought it before I even worked here!"

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week - Charlie

2009-12-19T12:08:00.000-08:00

Favorite Flooring Flavor of the Week

Name- Charlie Anderson, Seattle simpleFLOORS

Photo- Charlie with the Golden Topaz display!

Favorite Flooring Product- Hardwood, Engineered

Collection- Old World Chisel

Wood Species- Acacia

Color/Name- Golden Topaz

Qualities/Specs-
Thickness: 1/2"

Width: 4 3/4"

Length: Random
I go over: Both concrete or wooden subfloors

I can be: Glued, Floated, Nailed or Stapled down

I am: Real Hardwood Engineered
Use: Residential/Commercial
Wood species: Acacia

Janka hardness rating: 2400
Tongue & groove type: Precision milled 4 sided tongue and groove
Edge design: Micro-Beveled
Wear layer: 2.5mm Real Hardwood
Finish: German Klumpp brand Aluminum Oxide
Gloss level: Satin/Semi Gloss
Construction: 9-Ply Cross Grain Engineered
Countries grown in: Australia, Africa, India, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines
Installation rating: Easy
Structural placement: Above, Below and on Grade
Radiant heat: Yes
Warranty: 25 year wear warranty/lifetime structural

Why is that flooring my favorite?

"Because it is awesome! I like the variation, the rich & warm iridescent tone. The subtle hand-scraped technique and the sheen of the finish make it look and feel high-end without the cost."

Understanding Noise and How it Relates to Flooring

2009-12-13T12:13:00.000-08:00

Understanding Noise and How it Relates to Flooring

In the last few years noise has become a hot topic. One of the reasons for this change is that people are moving away from carpets to hard surface floors, such as hardwood and laminate flooring. It seems like every place you go there is "the newest and best underlayment". All these new products and product claims can be quite overwhelming and misleading. The purpose of this article is to provide a better understanding of noise and how it relates to flooring.
Complaints from condo owners about noisy neighbors are a constant issue. Some of these involve airborne sound sources (talking, music, plumbing), but many are due to the reverberation of footfall (people walking, running, to tap dancing!) or structure-borne noise that differs from its airborne counterpart.
The most commonly used terms in multi-family residential construction are the sound transmission class (STC) and the impact insulation class (IIC). These describe different types of noise, but are often interchanged or misunderstood.

What is noise?
There are two basic types of noise and measurements used to rate the acoustical performance of the floor-ceiling assembly. They are airborne noise and stucture-borne noise. The measurements used to determine the acoustical performance of airborne and structure-borne noise is the Sound Transmission Class (STC) and the Impact Insulation Class (IIC).
- The STC measures the performance of the floor-ceiling assembly to stop or isolate airborne noise such as voices, radio, televisions, etc.
- The IIC measures the performance of the floor-ceiling assembly to reduce or isolate impact noise (footfall) people walking, dropping objects, furniture being moved, etc.

Building codes
Building codes have established standards for minimum noise performances of partitions between residences. Most states use the International Building Code (IBC) which calls for a minimum IIC & STC rating for multi-family dwellings for new construction at 50 (or 45 if field tested). The minimum IIC rating of 50 would be considered low or an affordable housing rating, while a 55 would be considered more of an average or mid range rating and a 60+ would be considered a luxury or high-end rating.

One of the most common mistakes in selecting a floor underlayment is to look at a product IIC rating and think that it will perform to the same rating in your building. An IIC rating is determined on the complete floor-ceiling assembly, not just the floor underlayment. When comparing floor underlayments it is important to request the official IIC report from the company. The test report should come from an accredited lab and should detail what the floor-ceiling assembly was tested at. In recent years there have been some companies that advertise IIC rating of 72 without explaining how the product was tested, leaving many uneducated builders thinking that's all they need.
Whenever architects, builders and contractors are concerned with impact noise they should take the time to evaluate what underlayment will be installed and have an experienced acoustical consultant review their plans.

Here is the link to our underlayments

http://www.simplefloors.com/how_to/accessories.aspx

Families Fight Over Flooring

2009-11-13T12:02:00.000-08:00

Families Fight Over Flooring

I had an interesting experience the other day where two families I had been helping from earlier in the week came in approximately the same time to make their final flooring decision. Both of them were debating among themselves, and I was going back and forth between them answering questions and checking stock for them. Then one of them told me they had decided and were ready to purchase the Passport 2 Smoked Almond. I said ok, and then turned to the other couple, letting them know that they would have to wait a few weeks if they also wanted the Smoked Almond, as the other couple was ready to buy! As I wrote up the order for couple #1 he whispered about couple #2 "you snooze, you lose".

What it got me thinking about is that I sell a much higher percentage of my personal favorites than the other colors in a collection - and if my favorites were the same as other simpleFLOORS team members. After taking a brief poll, here are some other employee favorites!

3/4" Hardwood (*3/4" and hand-scraped)
*Any Reclamation Plank (Stephen, Sherin)
*Indian Red Reclamation (Ryan, Kristina)
*Prairie Acacia Reclamation (Charlie)
*Sable Reclamation (Chace, Rick, Tommy, Cece)
Amber Blaze (Len)
Brazilian Cherry (Shannon)
Brazilian Walnut (Debbie, Lesley, Cece, Dave)
English Saddle Acacia (Tommy, Jason)
Smoked Almond Acacia (Julie, Lesley, Lidia, Len, Tammi, Sherin, Reneelyn)
Tigerwood (Charlie, Kristina)

Link to Top Favorite 3/4" solid - Smoked Almond Acacia
http://www.simplefloors.com/products/Exotics-Flooring/Passport-Collection-2/Smoked-Almond/flooring727.aspx
Second mention - any of the Reclamation Plank
http://www.simplefloors.com/products/Hand-Scraped-Flooring/Reclamation-Plank/collection21.aspx

Bamboo
ANY Strand (Lidia, Len, Reneelyn)
Burnt Mocha (Debbie)
Strand Bora (Chace, Rick, Tommy, Tammi)
Strand Carbonized (Julie, Shannon, Lesley, Cece, Jason)
Strand Natural (Dave)
Zebrano Charred (Ryan, Stephen, Charlie, Kristina)

Link to Top Favorite Bamboo - Strand, Strand, Strand
http://www.simplefloors.com/products/Bamboo-Flooring/Nature-Strand-Woven/collection39.aspx

Cork - (sorry I forgot to put this on my poll, so only a few people gave their opinion)
Cobblestone (Debbie)
Durango or Harmony(Cece)

Hand-scraped
Acacia Old World Chisel(Christian)
Any Old World Chisel (Julie, Sherin, Reneelyn)
Brazilian Teak Vintage Couture (Tammi)
Golden Topaz Old World Chisel (Dave)
Hickory Old World Chisel (Lesley)
Lapacho Vintage Couture (Stephen, Lidia)
Machu Pichu Old World Chisel (Jason)
Natural African Hickory Old World Chisel (Lesley, Cece)
Natural African Walnut Old World Chisel (Debbie)
Roasted Almond Old World Chisel (Chace, Ryan, Rick, Mallery)
True Teak Vintage Couture (Shannon)

Link to Top Favorite Hand-scraped - Roasted Almond Old World Chisel
http://www.simplefloors.com/products/Exotics-Flooring/Old-World-Chisel/Roasted-Almond/flooring752.aspx

Laminate
Aged Hickory True Timber (Stephen, Rick, Len, Reneelyn)
ANY Masterpiece (Lidia)
Calladium Block Genva-Loc (Julie)
Cedar Masterpiece (Lesley, Cece)
Cinnamon Genva-Loc (Len)
Fedora Masterpiece (Chace)
Purple Heart True Timber (Ryan, Tommy, Charlie, Kristina, Jason)
Santos Mahogany True Timber (Shannon)
Varnished Walnut Masterpiece (Debbie, Tammi)

Link to Top Favorite Laminate - Purple Heart True Timber
http://www.simplefloors.com/products/Laminate-Flooring/True-Timber-Premium-Laminate/Purple-Heart/flooring809.aspx

In case you are interested - both couple #1 and couple #2 purchased their beautiful new floors from simpleFLOORS that day :)

How to Build Your Personal Brand and Sell More!

2009-11-02T10:07:00.000-08:00

How to Build Your Personal Brand and Sell More!

What is a brand?
A distinguishing symbol, mark, logo, name, word, sentence, or a combination of these items that companies use to distinguish their product from others in the market. (Dictionary.com)

How do you build your "brand"?
Internet - Website, online reviews, rankings on search engines, SEO, links, social networks such as Twitter & Facebook, and advertising.
Reputation - Being known for something whether it be particular product, quality, customer service, experience.
Word of mouth - Customers telling others about your brand/product/service.
Guerilla marketing - Unconventional marketing intended to get maximum results from minimal resources.
Advertising - Online, print, mailers, coupons, etc.
Quality - Making sure that what you sell is quality, whether it be product, education, customer service, or experience.
Google and other search engine searches - Rankings, reviews, advertising and websites.
Viral marketing - Viral marketing describes any strategy that encourages individuals to pass on a marketing message to others, creating the potential for exponential growth in the message's exposure and influence. Like viruses, such strategies take advantage of rapid multiplication to explode the message to thousands, to millions.

How many times do you need to see something before you recognize a brand?
I have no idea!! But I do know that the more your "brand" is recognized- the more success you will have reaching your potential customers as well. When doing direct mail or email campaigns, you get an increased open rate when they have a positive reaction to your name (hey- it's an email fromTammi at simpleFLOORS!)
Current open rate for direct mail advertising - 2.61% (varies based on industry)
Current open rate for email advertising 14 - 17% (for Retail)

Brands that may not be "the best in their category" but because of their brand awareness are recognizable to a huge population.
Bruce hardwood
Pergo
Band-aid
Kleenex
Coke
Nike
Google
Campbell's soup
Marlboro
Chesterfield - if you don't know what the heck this is, please contact Dave

How do you build your personal "brand"?
Do you what you say you will do
Educate - your customers know what they want even if they don't know they do
Under-promise, over-deliver
Ask for referrals
Be honest
Quality
Get recommendations or reviews posted about you and the product you have sold
Have integrity

Why invest in creating your own personal brand?
Look at this equation...
You get 1 person to recognize your "brand" with quality (product, follow through, personality, customer service, you name it) - and so they buy from you (you personally or your company- depending whose brand they believe in) instead of the competitor.

This one customer tells a couple of friends (you remember the commercial if you are old enough) and 2 of them decide to try you out based on getting that same branding experience (customer service, honest answers and information, fabulous product and price, etc.). This continues to build as your name gets passed on because you have a brand that people trust. This has unlimited potential.
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So my advice is to live up to your potential! If you need help doing that, please reach out- your team here at simpleFLOORS is here to support you!

Interesting links re: brand
Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brand
Social Definition of a brand
http://www.engagingexperience.com/2009/08/a-more-social-definition-of-brand.html
A is for Advertising, B is for Brand - article
http://www.zpd.net/shtimes.htm
Email marketing metrics
http://cdn.mailermailer.com/documents/email-marketing-metrics-2008h2.pdf

EcoMetro approves Simplefloors as local green company!

2009-10-21T09:16:00.000-07:00

Simplefloors was reviewed and approve by www.ecometro.com as a local green company!

Eco-Metro helps keep you up to date with monthly green tips, green coupons, and local approved green listed businesses. Simplefloors is proud to be accepted as a green business!

See our listing below!

http://www.ecometro.com/eastbay/organization.aspx?orgID=03f371a0-fa79-47ce-8fb1-7c453fd6197a

Hard Surface Flooring vs. Home Sales

2009-10-10T16:19:00.000-07:00

I recently purchased a new home and wanted to share my home shopping experience and what I noticed along the way in terms of hard surface flooring. We all know now is a great time to buy and there is a healthy inventory of homes for sale. That being said shoppers can be a bit pickier than normal in these times and a decision could be made purely on the flooring in certain cases. After viewing over 60 homes I came to the realization that a home with hardwood flooring definitely has a better sense of value and has a noticeably cleaner feel and look. When you walk in the door of a home with carpet you instantly can feel the difference in my eyes, and more often than not you can smell the difference as well. When you walk into a similar home with hardwoods it just feels nicer, and seems like it’s worth more like I mentioned before. When reviewing the homes with carpet and the homes with hardwood I noticed the asking price was higher almost every time with hardwoods. To give my point some justice when I walked into a carpeted home and my realtor dropped his card it was typically placed next to one or two others that were barely recognizable covered in dust. While walking into a home with hardwoods his card was placed on a pile that looked like that jar at your local sandwich shop to win a free lunch had been dumped out. It is obviously apparent these days that most knowledgeable homeowners are ripping out their carpet to replace with a hardwood floor. Bottom line you can list your home for a higher price, and have a better chance of selling it compared to the comparable home with carpet.

simpleFLOORS helps fight Breast Cancer!

2009-10-10T12:28:00.000-07:00

simpleFLOORS helps fight Breast Cancer!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, aside from skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), an estimated 192,370 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed among women in the United States this year. An estimated 40,170 women are expected to die from the disease in 2009 alone. Today, there are about 2.5 million breast cancer survivors living in the United States.

simpleFLOORS was a proud Title sponsor this year of the Pink Ribbon Classic Golf Tournament at the River Club Golf Course in Suwanee, GA - where one of our partners resides, golfs, and is an active member within the community.

Some great websites to learn more-
Pink Ribbon Classic
http://www.pinkribbonclassic.org/index.htm
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
http://www.nbcam.org/about_nbcam.cfm
Susan G Komen for the Cure
http://ww5.komen.org/
The Breast Cancer Site (click for free to help give free mammograms to women in need)
http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/clickToGive/home.faces?siteId=2
Athena Bottled water
http://www.athenapartners.org/

Blogging and Natural Search - flooring websites

2009-10-05T13:17:00.000-07:00

Blogging and Natural Search

I feel blogs are interesting... a neat way to learn about what is important to specific companies, or groups of people that contribute to their particular blog.

That being said, I have been recently enlightened and dismayed by the current trend to post totally non-sensical and fake articles in company blogs purely to get better search optimization on search engines.

Although I agree that getting the most out of your company blog... education for your employees and potential customers should be priority, extra clicks should just be frosting on the cake- not the entree. Reading some of the fake articles out there by others in the flooring business makes me sad (and angry when the "advice" is clearly wrong and just worded for more clicks) as I think it is our job to inform potential customers through our company blogs, not just get some free advertising.

Ok, I am jumping off my soapbox now.

Information re: Natural or Organic Search - Wikipedia
The Google, Yahoo!, and Bing search engines combine advertising and search results on their search results pages. In each case, the adverts are designed to look like the search results, except for minor visual distinctions such as their background color and/or placement on the page. Further, the appearance of the adverts on all major search engines is so similar to the genuine search results that a large majority of search engine users cannot effectively distinguish between them.
Because so few ordinary users (38% according to Pew) realized that many of the highest placed 'results' on search engine results pages were actually adverts, it became important within the search engine optimization industry to distinguish between the two types of content. As the perspective among general users was that all the results were in fact 'results', the qualifier 'organic' was invented to distinguish the real search results from the adverts. Because the distinction is important (and the word 'organic' has many useful metaphorical uses) the term is now in widespread use within the search engine optimization and web marketing industry. It is, as of July 2009, now in common currency outside the specialist web marketing industry, being used frequently by Google (throughout the Google Analytics site for instance).
Google claims that their users click (organic) search results more often than adverts, which has led them to rebut the research cited above.
The same report (and others going back to 1997) by Pew shows that users avoid clicking 'results' that they know to be adverts.

Seattle simpleFLOORS gives back to the community aka "Teddy Bears in Tukwila"

2009-09-10T13:31:00.000-07:00

In the Tukwila/Seattle store location we have the luxury of having a good sized showroom for our flooring displays and a warehouse in the back. One of the partners here has allowed his mom to keep a few boxes of personal items in the back, on a temporary basis. Last week she came in and sorted through some boxes, and found a box of stuffed animals. They were primarily teddy bears, most being beanie babies with their tags still on. She generously offered to give them to me to bring home to my 3 year old daughter, Riley. I thought there are other children who could use these teddy bears more than Riley (believe me, she is not lacking for toys). I called the local police station and asked if they were in need of any new teddy bears for their Operation Teddy Bear program. The nice officer who answered the phone immediately said "yes, we can definitely use them to give to children in need". In about an hour local Tukwila police officer came by and picked up the box full of teddy bears for the kids. The team at the Tukwila simpleFLOORS store feels good about being able to help 15-20 kids in trauma feel a little better with a new teddy bear to snuggle with. Just so no one feels bad for Riley... there were a few stuffed animals that were not teddy bears, so I brought those home to her.

Operation Teddy Bear Info (this is available in most cities!)
The program centers around helping young children who have been exposed to or involved in a traumatic incident involving police intervention. Ex: Domestic disputes, accidents involving injury. Children are given a teddy bear to keep, to help the officer form a bond with the child and also console the child. Teddy bears are donated by a private citizen.

Strand Woven Bamboo Test

2009-08-21T12:30:00.000-07:00

At our Seattle store we have a lot of customers who are interested in the strand woven bamboo. Some come in curious about bamboo, and some are not aware of it but fall in love with the strand as soon as we show them "the strand test". Many of these customers previously had a bad taste in their mouth about bamboo due to hearing about a friend (or friend of a friend) who has experienced problems with traditional bamboo (horizontal/vertical in either natural or carbonized). Once they see the test with their own eyes these concerns go away immediately.

What I mean by "the strand test" is we take 2 samples - a regular bamboo, and a strand bamboo - then we take the strand bamboo sample and hit the regular bamboo sample, which dents relatively easily. Remember - regular bamboo is about as hard as oak and maple. Then we take the regular bamboo sample and hit the strand bamboo sample with it (hard!) and honestly - nothing happens! I have been using the same strand sample for about 3 weeks, pounding on it multiple times per day, and you can't see a scratch. We also do the test with Brazilian walnut (ipe), the hardest wood - and the strand outperforms it.

Concerns about bamboo hardness are addressed when conducting "the Strand test" because you can immediately see how much harder the Strand is compared to regular bamboo.
This is not a trick - it is a great tool to show customers so they can get a real idea of how durable the strand bamboo is. Customers have asked me for samples to take home and show "the test" to their spouses, builders/contractors, and friends.

Strand comparison works well for:
Natural maple vs natural strand - similar color but much harder
Laminate vs strand - get the durability of laminate with natural beauty of bamboo
Hardwood vs strand - you can refinish the strand if you were ever able to damage it
Pet owners - very difficult to scratch/dig into the strand, and good for pet "accidents"
Families - very difficult to scratch/damage the strand with active children
Moisture concerns - being essentially a grass it is much better with liquid than hardwood
Eco friendly options - sustainable product that can also be refinished, not having to replace
Versatile look - easy to "dress up" or "dress down" based on personal taste. Can swing modern or traditional look depending on your furniture

In addition to being a great selling tool of the strand bamboo, it is fun!

Flooring underlayment - the scoop!

2009-08-13T12:54:00.000-07:00

I had another customer today ask me about underlayment... some of the common questions are:
1. Do I need underlayment?
2. Does it really matter which underlayment I get?
3. Why do I need a good underlayment if I am going over concrete and there is no one below me?

We decided at our store to put together a "cheat sheet" for our customers that outline the different underlayments we carry, and their features... as well as our comments and favorites listed.

Underlayment Options
When you are using a floating flooring product (whether it be wood, laminate, cork, or bamboo) you will need an underlayment. If you are going over a concrete subfloor you will also need a vapor barrier (a 6mil plastic). You will lay down the vapor barrier if necessary, tape the seams, then lay down your underlayment. There are multiple underlayments available, and the higher end ones will absorb more sound and vibration and make your floor sound more solid. This is true on both wooden or concrete subfloors. Low end underlayments will still cover your warranty but tend toward a more hollow or "clicky/tap-dance" sound when you walk on your floor.

6mm Cork (A close second for Favorite Category) $.97/sf
Natural cork underlay provide exceptional sound reduction capabilities in addition to insulation and comfort underfoot. The cork is harvested from the bark of the Cork Oak tree without harm to the tree. An environmentally friendly option for naturally healthy living. Cork quiets both hardwood and laminate floors.
· Environmentally friendly option
· Meets condo requirements
· Sound Performance: STC 52 - 66

3mm Cork $.68/sf
Natural cork underlay provide exceptional sound reduction capabilities in addition to insulation and comfort underfoot. The cork is harvested from the bark of the Cork Oak tree without harm to the tree. An environmentally friendly option for naturally healthy living. Cork quiets both hardwood and laminate floors.
· Environmentally friendly option

Redux® Acoustical Reduction (Simple Floors employee Favorite) $.50/sf
Our best foam rubber underlayment. Redux can be used in both commercial and residential applications. Redux reduces same room foot traffic noise as well as reduces sound transmission to adjacent rooms and lower levels. Redux is for use under both engineered wood floors, laminate and cork floating floors. Specifically for use with the floating floor installation method, Redux provides a quieter surface by absorbing under floor vibration.2.5mm thickness
· Mold and mildew resistant as well as non allergenic
· Sound Performance: STC 55

Royal Walker® $.59/sf
A premium underlayment developed to reduce noise transmission for use under both hardwood and laminate floors. The unique engineering of this underlay allow it to interact with the floor system itself in a manner that produces a sound similar to that of traditional wood flooring.
· Exceeds recommended moisture permeability ratings for installation over concrete slabs
· Sound Performance: STC 53

Silver series 3 in 1 (Moderate) $.32/sf
The silver series 3 in 1 is a mid level laminate and hardwood flooring underlay. The silver series offers moderate sound absorption for laminate and hardwood flooring. The higher density 2mm thick foam comes with an foil moisture barrier backing. No additional moisture barrier is needed when using The Silver Series. This underlay is for use over both wooden or concrete subfloors. The foil on this underlayment also adds insulating properties.

2 in 1 Combo Foam Film (Low end) $.24/sf
The 2 in 1 Combo Foam Film is the standard laminate floating floor underlay. The 2 in 1 Combo foam film can also be used under solid or engineered real hardwood floors as well. The 2 in 1 is a 2mm thick foam with a pre-attached moisture barrier. This underlay can be used over both wooden or concrete subfloors.

Green is not always about buying new

2009-08-11T18:13:00.000-07:00

Anytime you purchase something, you have an impact on the environment. Planned obsolescence is a term used to describe the artificial short life of a product. When I think about this in terms of flooring products (this is a blog about floors), one of the first things that comes to my mind is carpet and even sheet vinyl goods. Both of these products have a very short life span. They wear out, mat down, tear, stain and are available in colors and even patterns that date themselves and become obsolete by plan. They are both oil based and treated with stain resistant chemicals and fibers from companies like Monsanto the chemical company (another video to watch sometime is the world according to Monsanto). When I think about the impact of s carpet on the environment, I have to multiply the negative impact by more than a few times. This is because in a 50 year period it will need to be replaced at minimum 3-4 times.

In contrast good quality wood floors can be in service in a home 50 years down the line. Wood, bamboo and cork floors are a quality, long lasting product and they do not become design or "style" obsolete. Not only is their manufacturing impact on the environment less to begin with, they have a lower overall 50 year cost of ownership as they do not require constant replacing and they provide for healthy interior living spaces.

This video has been watched over 7 million times now. Its the Story of Stuff and the global manufacturing chain. It is direct, somewhat entertaining, very enlightening and only about 20 minutes long. I recommend it to everyone.

Pets and Flooring

2009-08-10T09:47:00.000-07:00

Many potential flooring customers come in the store looking for something that hold up well with their pets. Asking a few questions will help determine what the best flooring is for their personal situation.

What type of pets?
Dogs? If so, what size and how active are they?
Cats?
What are the concerns?
Scratching?
Accidents?
How long would the customers like the floor to last?
Are the customers looking for a cheap/inexpensive floor?
What type of sub-floor are they going over?

The good news is there are flooring options for pets in all categories... Here is some of our best flooring for pets and why one choice may be made over another:

Solid Hardwood - Although the finish on all hardwood can be scratched by pets, the wood hardness (Janka) varies per species. The harder species will still allow the finish to scratch, but will not be as easy to actually scratch/dig into the wood. Solid hardwood can be re-finished multiple times over the life of your flooring. Most of the solid hardwoods must be nailed down, our Reclamation Plank can also be floated.

Engineered Hardwood - Although the finish on all hardwood can be scratched by pets, the wood hardness (Janka) varies per species. The harder species will still allow the finish to scratch, but will not be as easy to actually scratch/dig into the wood. Engineered hardwood is typically less expensive than solid hardwood, and due to the multiple layers has less expansion and contraction, which is a better fit for many climates. Easy to install - can be nailed, glued or floated. May be able to be re-finished depending on the wear layer.

Handscraped Hardwood - Although the finish on all hardwood can be scratched by pets, the wood hardness (Janka) varies per species. The harder species will still allow the finish to scratch, but will not be as easy to actually scratch/dig into the wood. Due to the handscraped features on this product, scratches by pets can be filled in with a color-fil pen, just adding to the already "distressed" look of the flooring. Small dings/dents typically go un-noticed on this type of flooring.

Solid Bamboo - Although the finish can be scratched, this is an eco-friendly and inexpensive option vs. solid hardwood. It can be re-finished multiple times over the life of your flooring. This must be nailed or glued down.

Handscraped Bamboo - Due to the handscraped features on this product, scratches by pets can be filled in with a color-fil pen, just adding to the already "distressed" look of the flooring.
Strand Woven Bamboo - Our current favorite! Super hard and very difficult to scratch. Solid, so it can be refinished multiple times over the life of your flooring. 1/2" thickness allows the Strand bamboo to be nailed, glued down, or floated. The nature of bamboo vs. other flooring products makes it the best for "accidents" as well, being essentially a grass it is incredibly stable with spills/moisture.

Cork - This is a great option for an eco-friendly product, with a softer feel and special look. If your pet has a lot of accidents, we would recommend applying another coat of varnish so that it would be "seamless". Because of the varying pattern of most cork flooring small scratches/dents are difficult to notice.

Laminate - Great flooring for no-scratch marks from pets. Comes in various collections, colors and styles to suit different tastes. Not the best if the pet has a lot of accidents because there are seams in the flooring - but replacing planks is an option because it is a click-together product.

New Product Introduction: French Bleed, Dark Edge Eucalyptus

2009-06-09T10:22:00.000-07:00

Taconnay - Eucalyptus

This product, in person, is stunning. We have taken many angles, lighting shots and takes when imaging this and we are not able to capture the real look. You get a glimpse when you use the image zoom on the site to magnify into the grain. Customers in showrooms will see large displays and this floor has the look to become one of our most popular in short time. With a plank defining french bleed and a higher than standard gloss level, combined with the latest in distressed wood looks - the flat surface (no wave) with slightly distressed burmishing marks randomly and not overdone, throughout. We perfected this look last year and I am happy to see it finally in stock. More updates coming as the containers are really moving in, Oakland warehouse is near capacity again as we ramp up for the selling season with the latest colors and styles.

Enviro-Cork, Cobblestone hot new pattern

2009-06-08T13:37:00.000-07:00

Cobblestone, a new cork floor in a rectangular narrow block plank design.

The Enviro-cork line, like most corks floors is produced using the left over cork scraps from the wine bottle industry. Cork is a renewable resource as it is harvested from the bark of the cork oak tree. The tree grows new cork and is left unharmed providing the harvest was done correctly. In the past few years a fire destroyed many cork oak trees in Portugal so the material is not as abundant as it once was.

The Enviro-cork line has a locking center fiberboard core. Cork floors are to a large extent a green flooring option. The exception to this is the fiber board core. Nothing green nor environmentally friendly about fiberboard cores regardless of how companies want to spin it. The core does make installation easy and possible for most diy'ers as it allows the product to click together and requires no adhesives to install.

The fiberboard core has a cork underlay attached to the back of it as well. This means you need to purchase no additional underlay. This floor is starting in the low $3.00 per square foot range, you will find this is a remarkable rate if you shop around a bit.

New Product Arrival-Chiseled Teak

2009-06-04T08:49:00.000-07:00

Chattered Delfino: New hand-scraping style: Chiseled Teak

A brand new arrival, now in stock in our Oakland Warehouse. This is the latest look in handscraping techniques. I was visiting the factory site while this one was being made. Time Consuming and difficult to achieve. This works in traditional settings but really excels in modern and contemporary scenes. Razor thin scrape marks running horizontal throughout the body of the plank with no surface wave. It is stunning. Inset are random charred rectangle and box shaped carvers. Typically one per box or so but they are random in nature and done by hand so no quoting me on that. With handcrafted floors like this, what you get is unique to your home, no one else has a floor exactly like it. Its like purchasing an original art piece. This floor is actually starting at under $4.00 per square foot for a full pallet. An amazing price for an authentic hand crafted heirloom that will fill every room in your home.

Happy Birthday to US!

2009-05-15T08:33:00.000-07:00

First ever Showroom

E-sales at work

First E-sales Team

Charlie, John and Dave

First Company Truck

It started with a concept, that continues at simpleFLOORS. Taking care of our customers, not investors. 4 years ago today, in (an ant infested) small showroom/call center on Palou ave, an out of the way industrial neighborhood just south of downtown San Francisco simpleFLOORS was born.

With no budget and a little paint and elbow grease we build it.... and all of a sudden, the customers came, and by the hundreds. Some remember, originally the company name was floor factory.

Here is a nostalgic link to the original website, created from scratch.

Our styles, quality and vision propelled simplefloors.com to the 2nd highest trafficked website in its class. The product line has expanded greatly boasting the freshest in styles. 15 stores later and a booming e-sales division shipping quality floors at low prices, to homes across both Canada and the U.S.

Just a little company that simply could. Happy Birthday to the entire simpleFLOORS team. 4 years is a short time, the best is yet to come, we have just begun to get started!

2009-05-06T16:36:00.000-07:00

When you work here,

And you sell the most

Installation...............

YOU FLY IN ONE OF THESE

AND GET ON ONE OF THESE

TO HERE----------------

AND DO THIS!

CONGRATS TO

SHERIN NAGRA

for selling the most installation

and winning a flight for 2 and

3 nights at Casa Pericos in

Beautiful Yelapa, Mexico

Old World Chisel Acacia Room Scenes

2009-05-01T15:56:00.000-07:00

Brando from the Chicago office, took a video class at the local Mac store and this is his first version. This is a compilation of the room scenes from the Old World Chisel collection. Its nice to see these in larger room scenes. Keep the creativity coming........

Chicago, Pizza, Party and Peter

2009-05-01T14:37:00.000-07:00

We are sorry to see him go but he is not really leaving us. Peter from our internet sale team is re-locating to our new georgia office where he is certain to continue his record breaking streak. This picture was taken during his farewell pizza lunch party. Jan in the background seems a little to excited to see him go....hmm.........

Quite Simply a Hero

2009-04-30T15:03:00.000-07:00

Oscar is a excellent installation coordinator, a great communicator and now a local HERO. Oscar was honored by our local King County sheriffs dept., by being presented with the MERITORIOUS SERVICE AWARD by none other than the sheriff herself. He was picked up and escorted to the presentation by officer friendly himself. First time he got to ride in the front of a cruiser. see pic. of both outside of our of Seattle store.

Below is copy of an article that ran in a recent copy of the Stranger,written by David Schmader. It talks about our hero and why he won this award.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22 Attentive readers will recall the Metro bus saga of May 2008, when a man inflamed by mental illness and/or religious fervor boarded a bus and began beating a fellow passenger, who happened to be a blind woman. Reporting from the scene: Hot Tipper Oscar, aka Oscar Grey, who rushed to the woman's aid and, with the help of his fellow passengers, restrained the crazy clobberer until cops arrived. Today brings a most gratifying coda to this story, courtesy once again of Hot Tipper Oscar, who this afternoon was escorted by a King County Sheriff's deputy to the regional training center in Burien, where he—along with five of his fellow passengers—was given a meritorious service award for his help in stopping the assault. Congratulations to Oscar, who describes his award as "parchment in a green leather folder embossed with the King County insignia in gold." The wonderfully specific text: "To commend your actions when you intervened in an assault on a visually impaired woman on a Metro coach. The assault suspect was distracted and restrained by you and other passengers until King County deputies arrived on the scene. Your efforts kept the victim from suffering more serious injury." Hurrah for all.

Sustainable Rain-forests?

2009-04-28T13:58:00.000-07:00

Ipe impressions. Both the grain and color mimic the Brazilian Walnut (ipe) wood species. A unique finishing & grain embossing surface process transforms the appearance from bamboo into that of an exotic Brazilian Hardwood floor. When bamboo is the sustainable material of choice but a wood grain is more desire-able from the perspective of design, theIpe impressions option is ideal. This renewable floor has Low Voc’s, counts for LEED points and the bamboo plant from which this is harvested, lives on to be harvested again. The adhesives used are free of components classified as hazardous to the environment. No solvents, no heavy metals no bactericides. No rainforests were harmed in the making of this floor.

New Product addition

2009-04-23T11:34:00.000-07:00

An even wood surface in the field of the plank, a slightly higher than normal gloss level. Hand burmished darkened areas throughout the flooring. Hand painted/darkened french bleed beveled edges outline the 6" width of each plank.

8 coats of treffic aluminum oxide, 1/2 thick real wood, multi-directional plied grains. Glue, nail or floating installation all approved with this exciting new high design release. We have it by the truckload. Buy it for just under half the price of it's $9 flooring store price. Its why we say....

simplefloors

taste. the difference

Product Videos

2009-04-13T19:36:00.000-07:00

We are working on a series of information videos for all of our flooring collections. These videos contain highlighted details about the features of the collections and are designed to save you reading time. We have just started this project and are working on editing graphics and flooring pictures into the appropriate frames within the videos. Already It has been a fun project and the actual flooring consultants from e-sales dept, volunteered there time to do the scripts. We will not have all of them posted online for probably 2 months or so, still working debating internally the most user friendly, logical place to post these on the simplefloors site itself. Click here to check out our first test video

Hand-scraped wood floors. Why and where to use

2009-04-05T12:44:00.000-07:00

Design theme?
Hand-scraped wood floors when created using tradition and actual human artisan techniques create value in any home. These floors are not limited to a particular design theme. They adorn perfectly, the most minimal to the ultra traditional. Hand crafted goods add value. Regardless of whether you plan on ever selling your home, installation of authentic hand carved flooring increases the appeal and wow factor of any home. We have had many customers comment on their homes selling and attributed it in part because of these handcrafted floors being installed.

Realistic costs are possible on handscraped wood floors The art form of authentic handscraped floors is something that motivates us at simplefloors. Not only do we boast the largest species selection and handcrafting techniques of hand-scraped floors, our beginning price point starts below $3.00 per square foot.

The hanscraping techniques:
Time Worn Shallow Sculpt
The least aggressive of the hand-scraping techniques. The hand tool lathe is used to gently carve valleys into the surface of the floor. The edges of the floor are also carved to

an uneven, random state.

Flowing uneven paths throughout the surface are characteristics of this hand scraping technique. The Time Worn Technique, accomplishes the natural uneven effects of foot wearing patterns and subtle textures.

Saw KerfThis hand scraping technique consists of a multitude of Smaller chisel marks in selected groups running throughout the body width of the wood surface. Smaller intricate lines arranged in close proximity to each other produce whole unique distressed sections of the floor. Primarily due to the arrangement and creation of the smaller marks and greater quantity of them this is one of the most time consuming hand distressing processes.

Chisel impactUsing a sharp flat end chisel, the artisan applies blows with a hammer to the top of the chisel. The end of the chisel is held to the wood surface at an angle. The chisel is then placed at the adjacent edge of the fist blow mark, again at an angle. A small pie shaped indent randomly placed throughout the body of the wood surface results. Chisel i

mpact is not only one of the most striking in appearance it is one of the most time consuming hand scraping techniques and of no surprise by far one of the most requested. On some stained colors, deeper tint is often applied to the marks themselves creating further contrast with the surface for an authentic time aged appearance. The Hand Chisel Impact is not able to be mimicked by machine and takes the average artisan one day to complete 75 square feet.

Cross Slash
A series of stacked line gouges carved into the planks surface using a flat gouge blade.

Typically this vintage technique is accomplished using multiple scrape marks and at an angle to the length of the plank. Original craftsmen did not have the power tools to achieve perfect

planed surfaces. The stitch cross gouge will range in size depending on the intent of the artisan and resembles the scrape mark left

by the overcut of a tooth saw blade. Darkening tints will often be applied to the Stitch cross gouge making it more visible. This scraping technique is often used as a compliment to one or more of the other scraping techniques.

Zipper punch
The zipper punch distressing technique is used as a complimentary element of the overall distressing technique. Not as conspicuous as most techniques it can actually resemble a small metal zipper indents side by side on the surface of the wood floor. To further describe this distressing technique, you might imagine what a coarse, often referred to as “bastard file” file imprint stamped into a wood surface would look like. This techniques re-creates the impression of the teeth marks left in the wood by a hand held coarse file used centuries prior.

Hand-rubbed & toned
The process in which the flooring stain is applied heavier and lighter in various areas of the plank. This creates an uneven depth of color ranging from nearly translucent to dee

ply opaque. The goal is to achieve a very uneven time weathered look with the use of color stain. Often times this is used in conjunction with hand sculpting techniques to provide further depth and texture to the surfaces. This technique results in a surface with a variation of tones within the given stain color.

Bamboo flooring that may surprise

2009-04-05T08:29:00.000-07:00

Made of Bamboo, Premium Green's new strand woven hardwood flooring is not only breathtaking visually, it is a renewable "hardwood" floor produced organically without the use of fertilizers nor pesticides. The bamboo is harvested in approx 5 years and the plant it left alive and healthy to regrow once again. Something that can not be said for domestic tree species not to mention the exotic brazilian hardwoods that are under depletion.

If you want the exotic look of a brazilian hardwood the new strand woven collection might be the place to look. The original tones were in the steamed darker brown tones or the lighter natural tone. Now by mixing and weaving a variety of both we have the Charred and Raw options. Great choices and neutral colors all with an unexpected 3000lb janka hardness rating matching that of the Exotic Brazilian Walnut tree. This is twice the hardness rating as maple, standard bamboo flooring and Oak.

What about the cost? It is priced lower than our solid brazilian wood options.

So if you want the look and hardness rating of an exotic hardwood floor but do not like the idea of walking on the product of a dead rainforest, consider the strand woven bamboo option by premium green bamboo. Click here to view the color options of this new strand woven Premium Green bamboo flooring option